Enhancing Participation in Population Based Cancer Screening: Culturally Sensitive Approaches for Underserved Women

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities Research
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Declining participation in breast and cervical cancer screening in the Netherlands.
• Particular concern for underserved women in low socioeconomic areas of The Hague.
• Need to understand factors influencing screening decisions in these populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify social networks relevant to underserved women.
• Determine information needs for informed screening decisions.
• Uncover barriers to cancer screening participation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research approach.
• Utilized interviews, focus groups, and field observations.
• Explored experiences of women in low socioeconomic neighborhoods.

Main Results:

• Social networks (family, community centers, religious institutions, community figures) are crucial for outreach.
• Women require clear, accessible information in their native language from trusted sources.
• Identified barriers include language, knowledge gaps, digital literacy, cultural/religious beliefs, fear, and healthcare distrust.

Conclusions:

• Culturally sensitive information and social network engagement are vital for informed screening decisions.
• Strategies must prioritize trust-building, effective communication, and community involvement.
• Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of proposed strategies in reducing health disparities.